Imagine being one of the millions of South Africans who rely on the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant to cover basic needs like food or electricity. For many, the R370 monthly payment is a lifeline. In 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has introduced significant changes to this program, bringing both opportunities and challenges. From increased payouts to stricter verification processes, these updates aim to improve the system but have sparked debates about accessibility. Let’s dive into what’s new, why it matters, and how it affects you.
What Is the SASSA SRD Grant?
The SRD grant, often called the R370 grant, was launched in May 2020 to support unemployed South Africans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike other SASSA grants, it targets those in extreme financial distress who don’t receive other government aid like UIF or NSFAS. With over 8.5 million beneficiaries, it’s a cornerstone of South Africa’s social safety net. In 2025, the grant continues to evolve, balancing increased support with efforts to curb fraud.
Key Changes to the SRD Grant in 2025
Increased Payout: From R350 to R370
In April 2024, SASSA raised the SRD grant from R350 to R370 per month, a modest but meaningful R20 increase. For someone like Thandi, a single mother in Soweto, this extra R20 could mean an additional loaf of bread or a few more units of electricity each month. While small, the adjustment reflects the government’s response to rising living costs, with inflation eating into the purchasing power of vulnerable households. The R370 amount is set to continue throughout 2025, backed by a R34 billion budget allocation.
New Income Threshold: R624 Per Month
A major change in 2025 is the new income threshold of R624 per month, up from R350. If you earn more than this—whether from part-time work, family support, or other sources—you may no longer qualify. This rule aims to ensure the grant reaches those in dire need, but it’s raised concerns. For example, Sipho, a street vendor in Durban, earns just over R624 some months, risking disqualification despite his precarious situation. Critics argue this threshold could exclude many who still struggle.
Stricter Verification: Biometric Enrollment
Starting 7 June 2025, all new applicants using alternative IDs—like temporary IDs or asylum seeker permits—must undergo compulsory biometric verification. This change, announced by SASSA, aims to reduce fraud, which has plagued the system. In 2024, two Stellenbosch University students uncovered widespread fraudulent applications, highlighting the need for tighter controls. Existing beneficiaries updating personal details may also face biometric checks, which delayed payments for 20,000 recipients in May 2025 due to implementation hiccups.
Simplified Application Process
SASSA has made applying easier in 2025 by digitizing the process. You can now apply online via srd.sassa.gov.za or WhatsApp (082 046 8553), reducing the need for in-person visits. For rural applicants like Nomvula, who struggled with internet access, SASSA now allows in-person applications at regional offices. This dual approach addresses accessibility concerns, though challenges like long queues persist. The removal of the three-month reapplication requirement also means automatic eligibility checks, saving time for beneficiaries.
Faster Appeals Process
If your application is rejected, the appeals process has been streamlined, with response times cut from 90 to 30 days. This is a game-changer for someone like James, whose application was initially declined due to an outdated UIF record. By appealing quickly and correcting the error, he secured his grant within a month. Regular status checks via the SASSA portal or WhatsApp ensure you stay informed about your application’s progress.
Why These Changes Matter
These updates reflect a delicate balance between expanding support and ensuring system integrity. The R370 increase and extended eligibility aim to help more people, but stricter rules like biometric verification and the R624 threshold could exclude some. The Universal Basic Income Coalition has warned that these measures risk “systemic exclusion,” potentially leaving millions without aid. On the flip side, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana emphasized in his 2024 Budget Speech that the grant’s extension to March 2026 is a step toward a sustainable basic income system.
How to Navigate the New SRD Grant System
Check Your Status Regularly
To avoid surprises, check your application status on srd.sassa.gov.za using your ID and registered phone number. You’ll receive an OTP for security, and the portal will show if your application is approved, declined, or pending. Pro tip: Save screenshots of your status for records, as advised by SASSA to resolve disputes.
Update Your Details
Keep your contact and banking details current to avoid payment delays. If your phone is lost or stolen, update it via the SASSA portal or helpline within 14 days. Incorrect details led to payment issues for thousands in 2024, so double-check your information.
Appeal Rejections Promptly
If your application is declined—perhaps due to “income exceeds threshold” or “NSFAS registered”—appeal within 30 days. Provide evidence, like a payslip or affidavit, to correct errors. SASSA’s faster appeal process ensures quicker resolutions.
What’s Next for the SRD Grant?
The SRD grant’s future remains uncertain beyond March 2026. Godongwana hinted at integrating it with employment programs, like a job-seeker allowance, but critics argue this could be ineffective given South Africa’s structural unemployment. With 19 million grant recipients projected to rise to 19.3 million by 2027/28, the government faces pressure to sustain funding while addressing fraud. Discussions about a Universal Basic Income (UBI) are gaining traction, but no concrete plans have emerged.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 SASSA SRD grant changes bring hope and hurdles. The R370 payout and simplified applications are wins for millions, but stricter rules could leave some behind. Whether you’re a beneficiary or applying for the first time, staying informed is key. Check your status, update your details, and appeal if needed. For the latest updates, visit srd.sassa.gov.za or follow SASSA’s official channels. Have you been affected by these changes? Share your story below to join the conversation!